The South African Department of Higher Education and Training spent R5.8 million on travel expenses for Minister Blade Nzimande and his deputies, according to a report published by News24 on February 24, 2026.
The expenditure, detailed in the department’s annual report, covers travel undertaken by Nzimande and his deputies between April 2025 and March 2026. News24 reported that the spending included costs for both domestic and international travel, encompassing flights, accommodation, and related expenses.
The R5.8 million figure has drawn scrutiny, particularly given ongoing debates about fiscal responsibility within the South African government. The department’s travel bill represents a significant portion of its overall expenditure, raising questions about the necessity and cost-effectiveness of the trips undertaken.
According to News24, the department defended the spending, stating that the travel was essential for fulfilling its mandate, which includes engaging with stakeholders, attending international conferences, and benchmarking best practices in higher education. The department has not yet released a detailed breakdown of the specific trips undertaken and the associated costs.
The report comes amid broader discussions about government spending in South Africa. Recent reports have highlighted concerns about wasteful expenditure and the need for greater accountability in the use of public funds. The Department of Higher Education and Training’s travel expenses are likely to be subject to further scrutiny by parliamentary committees and the public.
As of February 25, 2026, the Department of Higher Education and Training has not issued a further statement responding to the News24 report beyond the initial defense of the expenditure.
